Over 150 organisations from 20+ states showcase 3,000+ products; Krushibhushan Vijay Anna Borade honoured with Atulya Yogdan Award 2026

Pune, October 5: The 19th edition of the Kala Krushi Bazaar, organised by Ishanya Foundation in collaboration with NABARD’s Bharat Gram Utsav, concluded in Pune with an encouraging response from visitors. The five-day initiative brought together more than 150 organisations from over 20 states, showcasing over 3,000 products representing India’s rich rural, agricultural and artisanal traditions.

The event featured a wide range of traditional handicrafts, handlooms, agricultural and organic products, sustainable goods, jewellery, pottery, home décor and regional food products. Visitors also had an opportunity to interact directly with artisans, farmers, social entrepreneurs and participating organisations and learn about traditional crafts, sustainable agriculture, recycling and livelihood initiatives.

A major highlight of the concluding ceremony was the presentation of the Atulya Yogdan Award 2026 to Krushibhushan Vijay Anna Borade for his contribution to agriculture, farmer empowerment and rural development. Borade was recognised for his work in rain-fed agriculture, water conservation and farming practices suited to drought-prone regions of Marathwada.

As Executive Director of the Marathwada Sheti Sahayya Mandal, Borade has been working on grassroots initiatives related to agricultural education, water management and rural community empowerment, besides promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Speaking on the occasion, Shailesh Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director of Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals Corporation Limited (DFPCL), said that the awardees demonstrated the potential of grassroots innovation to transform rural livelihoods. He highlighted the importance of their work in water conservation, climate-resilient agriculture and promoting farmer entrepreneurship.

Parul Mehta, Managing Trustee, Ishanya Foundation, said the Kala Krushi Bazaar aims to provide a wider platform to individuals and organisations working towards innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development. The initiative, she said, seeks to encourage greater participation in building stronger rural economies.

Three outstanding NGOs were also presented with cash awards in recognition of their work. The financial support is expected to help the organisations strengthen their products, marketing initiatives, resources and institutional capacities.

The collaboration with NABARD’s Bharat Gram Utsav provided rural producers and entrepreneurs with a wider platform to reach urban consumers and showcase both their products and the stories of the communities behind them.

A capacity-building session titled ‘From Selling to Sustaining – 3 Practical Levers for Growing a Small Business’ was also organised for participating organisations. The session focused on helping small enterprises expand their reach and create sustainable growth opportunities.